The Delhi Public Works Department (PWD) has made it mandatory to install QR codes on all existing and new road signboards across the city, in a move aimed at improving maintenance, accountability, and public reporting of damaged infrastructure. According to fresh directions issued by the department, it is now mandatory to install Quick Response (QR) codes on all existing and future road signage across the city. This initiative is a part of an extensive drive undertaken by the PWD to upgrade the current retro-reflective signs and integrate digital tracking into public assets.
The primary objective behind this move is to establish a systematic database for every signboard installed on Delhi’s roads. Each QR code will serve as a digital identity for the specific signage it is attached to. Initially, these codes will provide essential technical details, such as the date of installation, the name of the contractor responsible for the work, and warranty-related information. This transparency is expected to ensure that contractors adhere to quality standards and fulfill their maintenance obligations during the warranty period.
The implementation of this project is planned in two distinct phases. In the first phase, the QR codes will only display basic information regarding the signage. This data is intended for administrative use to track the lifespan and durability of the materials used in the signs. As the project moves into the second phase, the scope of these QR codes will be significantly expanded. Officials have stated that more detailed information about the signboard will be added, and the system may eventually be integrated with the 'PWD Sewa' mobile application.
One of the most important aspects of this integration is the empowerment of the general public. Once the second phase is operational, citizens will be able to scan the QR code on a damaged or faded signboard to lodge a formal complaint directly through the mobile app. This creates a direct link between the department and the residents, allowing for faster identification and repair of broken infrastructure. Currently, reporting a damaged sign often involves a cumbersome process of identifying the exact location and contacting the right authorities. With the QR code system, the location and asset details are automatically linked, making the grievance redressal mechanism more efficient and accountable.
Furthermore, the PWD has issued standardized guidelines that must be strictly followed during the installation and maintenance of these signboards. These guidelines ensure uniformity across the city and help in maintaining the retro-reflective quality of the signs, which is crucial for road safety at night. The use of technology in this manner reflects a shift toward smart governance, where physical infrastructure is monitored through digital tools to ensure longevity and public convenience.
Overall, the decision to mandate QR codes on road signage is a proactive step by the PWD to modernize Delhi’s road network. It not only assists the department in internal record-keeping and contractor management but also invites public participation in maintaining city assets. By bridging the gap between physical infrastructure and digital reporting, this initiative aims to create a more responsive and well-maintained environment for the commuters and residents of Delhi.
